Shivani Raja MP has posted a copy of her letter to Keir Starmer on X following reports that Hindus attending Downing Street Diwali celebrations were offered alcohol and meat.
Ms Raja has offered her assistance to Downing Street for any future Hindu functions.
Ms Raja's letter to Keir Starmer in full:
The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer MP
Prime Minister
10 Downing Street
London
SWIA 2AA
Our Ref: SR01842/SC
Dear Prime Minister,
Re: Diwali 2024
14 November 2024
I hope you are keeping well. I am writing to you today with regard to the Diwali celebrations that took place in 10 Downing Street this October.
Diwali, a treasured celebration across the Hindu community, has been celebrated at Downing Street since 2009, a testament to the influence and importance of Hindus throughout our nation, and a welcome acknowledgment of the successful integration of Hindus across the UK.
It is for this reason that I, along with a large number of my constituents, were greatly concerned to hear that during this years' celebration at Downing Street, attendees were offered alcoholic beverages and meat, not in keeping with the customs of many Hindus.
I feel this speaks poorly against the organisation of this years' event - with a disappointing lack of knowledge of the customs and traditions that many British citizens hold dear. As I hope you are aware, Diwali is an incredibly auspicious time for Hindus, welcoming in new beginnings, light over dark and good over evil. As a practicing Hindu, representing thousands of Hindus within my own constituency of Leicester East, I have been deeply saddened to hear that this years' festivities were overshadowed in the greatest Office of State by negativity, as a result of this oversight.
I strongly believe that it is of the utmost importance that the customs and traditions of Hindus, who are a proud part of our great nation, are respected. It is with this in mind that I offer my own assistance and guidance for all future Hindu celebrations, to ensure that these festivities are celebrated in a respectful manner, and mindful of the culture from which they originate. I do hope that you will consider taking me up on my offer of support on this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Shivani Raja MP
https://twitter.com/ShivaniRaja_LE/status/1857122146390089824
